20 Things to Do in Houston — From Rodeos to Art Museums

Explore Houston's Cultural Scene

Houston boasts a thriving cultural scene that rivals many major cities. Immerse yourself in art, history, and performing arts.

1. Museum District: Spend a day exploring the renowned Museum District, home to 19 museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Children's Museum Houston. With so many options, you can easily find something to pique your interest.

2. Space Center Houston: Embark on an out-of-this-world adventure at Space Center Houston, the official visitor center of NASA's Johnson Space Center. Explore exhibits, see actual spacecraft, and learn about the history of space exploration. You might even catch a glimpse of astronauts in training!

3. Menil Collection: Discover a world-renowned collection of art spanning various periods and cultures at the Menil Collection. This museum features works by Max Ernst, René Magritte, and Pablo Picasso, among others, and admission is free.

4. Theater District: Catch a Broadway show, ballet performance, or symphony concert in Houston's Theater District, a vibrant hub for performing arts. The district is home to several renowned theaters, including the Alley Theatre and the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts.

5. Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern: Explore the unique and eerie Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern, a former drinking water reservoir that has been transformed into an art space. Take a guided tour and marvel at the vast, echoing chamber.

Get Outdoors in Houston

Despite being a sprawling city, Houston offers plenty of opportunities to connect with nature.

6. Buffalo Bayou Park: Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the scenic Buffalo Bayou Park. This green space features walking trails, bike paths, kayak rentals, and stunning views of the city skyline.

7. Hermann Park: Relax and unwind in Hermann Park, a sprawling urban oasis featuring a Japanese Garden, a zoo, a golf course, and a variety of other attractions. Pack a picnic and spend an afternoon enjoying the park's tranquil atmosphere.

8. Houston Arboretum & Nature Center: Escape the city bustle and immerse yourself in nature at the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center. Explore diverse ecosystems, hike scenic trails, and learn about native plants and animals.

9. Discovery Green: This vibrant downtown park hosts concerts, festivals, and other events throughout the year. Discovery Green also features a playground, a dog run, and several restaurants and cafes.

10. Kemah Boardwalk: Take a short drive from Houston to the Kemah Boardwalk, a waterfront amusement park with rides, games, restaurants, and shops. Enjoy thrilling roller coasters, sample delicious seafood, and soak up the festive atmosphere.

Experience Houston's Unique Culture

Houston has a distinctive culture all its own, with a rich history and diverse influences.

11. Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo: If you're visiting in the spring, don't miss the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, a month-long celebration of Western heritage. Enjoy rodeo events, live music, livestock shows, and carnival rides.

12. Graffiti Park: Explore the vibrant and ever-changing Graffiti Park, a public art space where local artists showcase their talent. Take photos of the colorful murals and admire the creativity on display.

13. 19th Street in the Heights: Browse the unique shops and boutiques along 19th Street in the Heights, a historic neighborhood with a charming small-town atmosphere. This area is known for its antique stores, vintage clothing shops, and art galleries.

14. Saint Arnold Brewing Company: Sample locally brewed craft beers at Saint Arnold Brewing Company, Texas' oldest craft brewery. Take a tour of the brewery, enjoy a pint in the beer garden, and learn about the brewing process.

15. Chinatown: Explore Houston's vibrant Chinatown, a diverse neighborhood with authentic restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. Indulge in delicious Chinese cuisine, browse the Asian markets, and experience the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Beyond the Usual: Unique Houston Activities

Looking for something a little different? Houston has plenty of unique and offbeat attractions to discover.

16. Beer Can House: Marvel at the Beer Can House, a quirky folk art creation covered in thousands of flattened beer cans. This unique landmark is a testament to one man's artistic vision.

17. National Museum of Funeral History: Explore the fascinating and often macabre National Museum of Funeral History. Learn about the history of funeral customs, view historical artifacts, and gain a new perspective on death and mourning.

18. Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park: Stand in awe of the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park, a stunning architectural marvel featuring a towering semicircular wall of water. This iconic landmark provides a refreshing and picturesque escape from the city.

19. Cockrell Butterfly Center: Step into a tropical rainforest and marvel at thousands of colorful butterflies at the Cockrell Butterfly Center, located within the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

20. Underground Tunnels: Explore Houston's hidden underground tunnels, a network of passageways connecting downtown buildings. Take a guided tour and discover this unique aspect of Houston's urban landscape.

Planning Your Houston Trip: A Quick Guide

To help you organize your trip, here’s a quick reference table:

With its diverse array of attractions, Houston offers endless possibilities for exploration and adventure. Whether you're interested in art, science, nature, or unique cultural experiences, you're sure to find something to love in this dynamic city. So, start planning your trip today and discover all that Houston has to offer!